The New Orleans Pelicans defeated the visiting Denver Nuggets, 125-115, at Smoothie King Center on Saturday.

While there were eight ties and eight lead changes in the first half, New Orleans held the lead for the entirety of the second half. In fact, the Pelicans either won or tied all four quarters, as a 28-21 third quarter allowed them to control the second half. New Orleans dominated from the free-throw line, hitting 31-of-34 while holding Denver to just 8-of-13. Transition offense was also critical for New Orleans, as they outscored Denver, 20-10, in fastbreak points.

The Nuggets (11-5) were led by Nikola Jokic, as he tallied 25 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists. Gary Harris finished with 24 points, five rebounds and four assists. Juancho Hernangomez totaled 20 points, 11 rebounds and two assists. Monte Morris went 6-of-7 from the field to lead the bench with 13 points, three rebounds and five assists.

The Pelicans (9-7) got another monster game from Anthony Davis, as he went 20-of-21 from the free-throw line to collect 40 points, eight rebounds and eight assists. Nikola Mirotic amassed 20 points, 10 rebounds, two assists and three block. Jrue Holiday accrued 19 points, three rebounds, eight assists and three steals. Julius Randle led the bench with 21 points, 10 rebounds, three assists and three steals.

Both teams return to action on Monday, with Denver traveling to face the Milwaukee Bucks and New Orleans welcoming the San Antonio Spurs to The Big Easy.